Disclosure: This content was produced by an independent editorial party for the purposes of educating our customers, and is not influenced by the other business operations of CARCHEX.

Each new Volkswagen comes with four years or 50,000 miles of new vehicle limited warranty coverage, but after that you’ll have to cover repairs on your own. The alternative is to purchase a Volkswagen extended warranty, which can provide protection for your vehicle long after its original coverage has expired.

In this article, we’ll explain various details about the automaker’s extended coverage options. We will also mention some of the best used car warranty companies that can offer similar protection to the Volkswagen plan at rates that are often significantly lower.

How Long Is the Volkswagen Factory Warranty?

Most new Volkswagen vehicle owners will receive a four-year/50,000-mile manufacturer’s warranty. While bumper-to-bumper coverage is slightly longer than the industry average, you’ll receive a somewhat shorter powertrain warranty than the average driver.

Most automakers offer the following factory warranty coverage terms:

  • Bumper-to-bumper coverage: three years/36,000 miles
  • Powertrain coverage: five years/60,000 miles

Because the Volkswagen warranty isn’t especially generous, a Volkswagen extended warranty might be a strong choice for new VW owners.

Volkswagen People First Warranty

Volkswagen owners who have cars built in 2018 or 2019 instead receive the People First warranty, which comes with six years or 72,000 miles of coverage. This warranty provides powertrain coverage along with protection for your car’s battery, brake pads, paint, wiper blades, and mechanical adjustments. Maintenance services, tire issues, and some types of corrosion aren’t included, however.

Regardless of your specific plan, a Volkswagen extended warranty could provide valuable protection once factory coverage runs out.

Volkswagen Extended Warranty Coverage

Volkswagen dealerships offer extended warranties known as Vehicle Service Protection Plans. You can receive up to 10 years or 150,000 miles of coverage that includes mechanical repairs along with parts and labor.

There are three options for Volkswagen extended warranties from the automaker. We’ve outlined some key details of each below:

Volkswagen Extended Warranty Plans

  • Powertrain Plan: Covers the engine, transmission, drive axle, and hybrid or electrical system
  • Gold Plan: Powertrain coverage plus climate control, shocks, front and rear suspensions, fuel system, and electrical components
  • Platinum Plan: Gold coverage plus steering, brakes, CV boots, navigation, audio, and high-tech

While you’ll receive relatively strong coverage through the VW coverage plan, there are a few exclusions. The Volkswagen extended warranty doesn’t cover preexisting conditions or mechanical breakdowns caused by lack of maintenance, accidents, weather-related issues, or vandalism. Issues with upholstery, paint, tires, and glass are also left out of coverage.

Volkswagen Extended Warranty Benefits

The plans above are part of the Volkswagen Drive Easy Program and include perks like 24/7 roadside assistance, towing services, rental car reimbursement, trip interruption benefits, and fuel and fluid deliveries. While VW extended warranties are transferable, there’s a fee of $50 when doing so.

Used cars and certified pre-owned (CPO) vehicles receive similar coverage to what’s offered by these Volkswagen extended warranty plans.

Close up cropped shot of experts mechanical specialist professional checking oil level in car engine with orange tool, in repair shop. Maintenance, safety, open supported hood of auto

Volkswagen Extended Warranty Cost

While there’s no set cost for Volkswagen vehicle protection plans, it’s typical for drivers to spend between $1,500 and $2,500 in total for coverage. Actual rates may vary based on your car’s make and model year, its reliability, and the scope and length of the coverage you desire.

Note that Volkswagen extended warranties are often more expensive than protection from the best auto warranty companies. You’ll also be limited to Volkswagen’s three choices rather than the flexibility and accessibility of third-party providers. For instance, CARCHEX offers five vehicle protection plans that could better fit your budget and coverage needs.

Volkswagen Extended Warranty Deductibles

If you purchase Volkswagen extended warranty coverage from the dealership, you’ll select a coverage level and pay a deductible rather than repair costs. The VW warranty deductible options are $0, $100 disappearing, $100, or $250 per visit, but you’ll get charged $50 if you’re part of the CPO Service Protection program.

How To Get a Deal on a Volkswagen Extended Warranty

To find the best car warranty for your Volkswagen model, follow the tips outlined below:

  • Buy an extended warranty before factory coverage ends: Your vehicle service contract will likely cost less if you buy it early. That’s because your car has less miles and years on it, giving it a lower rate for coverage than down the line.

  • Perform extensive research: Doing research on each Volkswagen extended warranty option will almost always give you a lower final rate. That’s because Volkswagen dealers and coverage providers could offer higher prices if you don’t know what a competitive rate looks like.
  • Consider third-party providers: You’ll often pay higher rates if you head to the dealership for a Volkswagen extended warranty. After all, your coverage will be rolled into your car payment, causing you to pay interest on the warranty. Some dealers pressure buyers to select warranty coverage right when purchasing the car, but this isn’t necessary and is rarely a good idea.

Is the Volkswagen Extended Warranty Worth It?

When your factory warranty ends, a Volkswagen extended warranty is the easiest way to cover costly repair bills. That’s because it replaces steep and unexpected upfront payments with a low monthly rate for auto repairs. Many Volkswagen owners believe that extended coverage is worth it due to this added peace of mind.

Volkswagen Average Repair Costs

The longer you keep your Volkswagen, the more likely that costly vehicle repairs become. Consider these issues with aging Volkswagens and RepairPal’s reported costs:

  • Volkswagen Tiguan clutch replacement: $1,638 to $1,823
  • Volkswagen Jetta fuel pump replacement: $729 to $884
  • Volkswagen Passat alternator replacement: $967 to $1,380
  • Volkswagen Beetle timing belt replacement: $632 to $762

Remember that each model has its own parts, so the repair bill for a Volkswagen Atlas may look different than for a Golf.

Can You Afford To Pay These Repair Costs?

A Volkswagen extended warranty from the automaker itself will cover most of these costs, but only if you head to a licensed VW dealership and use genuine company parts. On the other hand, third-party providers like CARCHEX let you have repairs done by any mechanic using whichever parts you prefer.

Tips for Buying a Volkswagen Extended Warranty

Lots of companies offer vehicle service contracts, so it can be tough to learn which Volkswagen extended warranties are reputable. Below are features to look for in the contract’s fine print as you shop for coverage:

  • Your plan shouldn’t leave exclusions for major mechanical repairs.
  • The contract should take effect when you buy the warranty, not the car.
  • You should receive a 30-day or 60-day money-back guarantee.
  • Deductibles should only be charged during eligible repair visits.
  • A good extended car warranty covers the costs of towing, rental cars, and meals and lodging during mechanical breakdowns.
  • Avoid plans that only cover repairs at the dealer of purchase or a single brand.
  • Your Volkswagen extended warranty should pay the repair shop directly.
  • The contract provider should be backed by reputable automotive industry leaders.

Why Choose CARCHEX?

CARCHEX is the market’s best extended warranty company due to its combination of quality coverage, reasonable rates, and stellar customer service. Below are a few data points that reveal how CARCHEX compares to the competition:

CARCHEXAutoAssureConcord Auto ProtectEndurance
Years in Business24131017
Instant QuoteYesYesYesYes
BBB AccreditationYesNoNoNo
BBB RatingA+C+D-Not Rated
BBB Complaints (last 36 mo.)1591171602,029
Partnerships/EndorsementsCARFAX, RepairPal, Edmunds.com, Autoblog, SiriusXM, Vehicle Protection Association, and Goss’ Garage.Vehicle Protection Association, Dun & BradstreetConsumer AffairsCourtney Hansen, Katie Osborne, Vehicle Protection Association

Updated September 2023

CARCHEX Customer Service

CARCHEX puts “Customer Experience Above All” and emphasizes both value and flexibility. Below are a few examples of how we place our policyholders first:

  • Affordable payment plans: Our monthly payment plans and lack of down payments help you to avoid pricey out-of-pocket repair bills.
  • Your choice of repair shop: There’s no need to head to a specific dealership with CARCHEX, as we’ll let you take your car to almost any mechanic.
  • Direct payments to repair facilities: You won’t be required to foot the bill and wait for claims reimbursements with CARCHEX.
  • 30-day money-back guarantee: We stand behind our warranty products and services, so you’ll get a full refund if you aren’t fully satisfied during the first month.
  • Exceptional customer service: CARCHEX holds an A+ rating and accreditation from the Better Business Bureau (BBB), and policyholders usually give us high marks for responsiveness.
  • Trusted industry partners: CARCHEX has been endorsed by industry leaders such as the Vehicle Protection Association, Edmunds.com, and CARFAX.
  • Low prices every day: Our Volkswagen extended warranty agents will give you our lowest price upfront, so you won’t need to haggle for the best rates.
  • Included benefits: All of our extended vehicle protection plans come with 24-hour roadside assistance, gas deliveries, trip interruption benefits, and towing services.
  • Free, customized quotes: CARCHEX will tailor car warranty quotes to your budget, vehicle make and model, and coverage preferences when you give us a call.

CARCHEX Extended Warranty Plans

When you get a Volkswagen extended warranty from CARCHEX, you’ll be protected from unexpected mechanical breakdowns. The chart below explains our five customizable levels of coverage, which range from a powertrain warranty up to bumper-to-bumper protection.

CARCHEX Vehicle Protection Plans

Most drivers appreciate the wide-ranging protection given by Titanium coverage, while those with high-mileage VW vehicles often stick with the Gold and Silver plans. Our warranty review team will gladly match up your budget and coverage needs with one of our flexible coverage offerings.

While your cheapest option is the basic Bronze tier, you’ll likely receive a greater value if you choose a more comprehensive plan. That said, drivers receive exceptional coverage and competitive rates regardless of which CARCHEX warranty they purchase.

Get a Volkswagen Extended Warranty From CARCHEX

Getting a quote on a Volkswagen extended warranty is free, fast, and easy with CARCHEX. Call the warranty experts at 866-261-3457 and we’ll help you figure out which vehicle protection plan is the right fit for your needs.

FAQ: Volkswagen Extended Warranty